Title
Study Session to Review Proposed Text Amendments to the City of Alameda Zoning Ordinance (AMC Chapter 30) to ease restrictions on Accessory Dwelling Units, streamline Design Review for existing homes, modify the Work/Live Ordinance, and other miscellaneous administrative, technical, and clarifying amendments. The proposed amendments are exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.17 and CEQA Guidelines Sections 15282(h), which exempts ordinances implementing Accessory Dwelling Unit Law (Government Code Section 65852.2), 15061(b)(3), where it can be seen with certainty that the proposed zoning text amendments will not have a significant effect on the environment, and 15183, projects consistent with a community plan, general plan or zoning.
Body
To: Honorable President and
Members of the Planning Board
From: Andrew Thomas
Acting Planning, Building and Transportation Director
Date: June 24, 2019
BACKGROUND
The City of Alameda Zoning Ordinance establishes regulations and development standards for the use of land. The purpose of these regulations is to protect public health, safety, and general welfare and ensure that public and private actions related to the use and development of land in Alameda is consistent with community expectations and priorities as articulated in the General Plan.
On April 16, 2019, the City Council, at the recommendation of the Planning Board, endorsed an Annual Report on the status of the General Plan and Housing Element and directed staff to remove barriers to residential development, find ways to reduce housing costs, and make home improvements more affordable while implementing measures to address the City's climate change emergency.
In response to these directions, staff has prepared the first package of zoning text amendments focused on removing barriers that make it difficult for property owners in Alameda to add an accessory unit or build a ...
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